A GIFT shop is celebrating four decades of serving the community.
Hexham Abbey's Gift Shop, based on Beaumont Street, is marking 40 years since it opened in June 1984.
Sally Oliver, the shop's retail manager, said all profits go to funding the Abbey's maintenance.
Products include gift items such as mugs, books, candles, photo frames and cards.
The Hexham Courant reported on the shop's opening. It reported that it was officially opened by the chairman of the Northumbria Tourist Board, Councillor Jennifer Deas.
Sally said the gift shop is an asset to the town.
"I think Hexham is picking up in terms of retail which is good and there are some new unique shops appearing. We just need more to get people into the town. But I think it is improving," Sally said.
"We try to support local artists and have British produce where we can, although it's not always possible. To try and make money for the Abbey, I've turned it into more of a unique gift shop with interesting things you don't find everywhere.
"We do very well with selling cards. I think a lot of people think it's a tacky gift shop with a lot of religious things in and it's not, it's worth a look around. If you live in Hexham, pop in and have a look, you might be pleasantly surprised."
Sally started working in the Abbey cafe before moving to the gift shop approximately seven years ago.
The shop is run by several paid staff and a team of more than 20 volunteers.
"We couldn't do without the volunteers, they're very dedicated and turn up every week. I'm always looking for more."
Sally said she loves meeting people from across the world who visit the Abbey shop and enjoys having the creative freedom to fill the shop with whatever she thinks will sell well.
"It's a nice place to work and a beautiful building to work in. You don't have to be religious to work here either," she added.
To find out more about volunteering at Hexham Abbey Gift Shop, email Sally at sally.oliver@hexhamabbey.org.uk.
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